Kirsten getting their Class A CDL to be a lineman

Hey, y'all! I am Kirsten and I am doing everything I can to begin a serious career in the industry of lineworking. I have already emailed the local union, NW Line JATC, and they said I am qualified to be an apprentice, and even high on the list, as soon as I can get my Class A CDL (commercial drivers license). I called the school they recommended (Elite Truck School in Beaverton, OR) to take the course and get the license, and it costs $6000 total, all said and done w DMV testing and fees.

I am currently enrolled in the pre-apprenticeship program with Oregon Tradeswomen in The Dalles, a 5 week course in which I am learning everything from OSHA regulations to how to handle power tools, as well as getting a Green Construction certification and getting to experience a day in the life of several construction and electrician related jobs.

With my stipend from the program, I can contribute $1,000 to my Class A CDL course. (The rest of my stipend will go to paying rent and bills, gas, dog food, and such.) I need help coming up with the other $5k. I have found one grant to apply to and will be seeking others, but there are no guarantees

If you know me at all, you know that I have struggled to find a steady career. For those who don't know me, I have worked in the restaurant, retail, childcare, and adult & senior care industries for 19 years. I am seeking a serious change, and I am committed to making it happen. I love working outside, climbing, working with my hands, solving problems, and contributing to the world, which are a few reasons my current career goal is to be a lineworker. I am not afraid of hard work, I quite enjoy heavy exercise, and I know that I am qualified for the position, minus this one certification.

In the past, I did not believe in myself or my dreams. This is me changing that. I know I will make a good lineman, and I hope to get there sooner rather than later. Please consider donating as every little bit helps, and if you cannot donate please share this fundraiser because if 5,000 strangers each donated 1 little dollar, it would be enough to help me reach my goals and touch my dreams (the other $150 would cover gofundme's fees but I could also make do without it).

I appreciate everyone's support, whether financial or moral, as I embark on the journey to be an apprentice, one day a journeyman, and hopefully a foreman before I retire. I will not give up this goal!